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How to overcome eating disorders

Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia are not as uncommon as one would think. And it is to spread awareness about these debilitating disorders and the consequences it has on one's physical and mental health that June 2, 2016 is being observed as the first ever World Eating Disorders Action Day. The road to recovery for those suffering from these disorders is not easy. Here are some celebs who share a story or two from their own eating disorder battles and from whom you can draw inspiration.

Richa ChadhaIn a recent TedX Talk, actor Richa Chadha revealed the dark side of the film industry, stating how "eating disorders are the best kept secret of showbiz", and went on to speak about her own battle with bulimia. She said about the condition, "It's when you consistently hate what you look like, and compulsively induce vomiting, throw up all the food you eat, accompanied often by binge eating, general anxiety and sadness and believing basically that you are unworthy." In a NDTV interview, she went on to say how the only way out for her was to embrace herself. "Embrace yourself, embrace your body, your beauty. That's really what it is all about and it takes a lot to do that...it's a valid problem and it needs to be attended to."Health tip: Bulimics often experience uncontrollable binges. Curb this by practicing intuitive eating. Start paying attention to your triggers - is it stress, is it boredom? Eat only when you physically crave food. And replace your triggers with activities to keep you busy and away from that bag of chips. For example, if you are feeling anxious, get rid of the nervous energy by going for a brisk walk.

Demi LovatoActor-singer Demi Lovato has said that she had body image issues since the age of four and it was only when her parents stepped in and sent her to rehab did things finally change for the better; so much so that she even bared it all in a no-makeup, no-fancy-lighting, no-retouching nude photo shoot. Demi has said about this shoot, "I went from being in a place where I was suffering from an eating disorder and hating every single inch of my body to now baring my legs and showing more skin in front of the whole world and being proud of my body instead of loathing it."Health tip: Shop right to give yourself more healthy food options to choose from. Fill your cart with more of veggies and fruits that also help curb hunger cravings immediately, than with foods such as chocolates, chips, etc.

Lady GagaSome may find it hard to believe, but Lady Gaga - the maverick persona of singer-songwriter Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta - suffered from depression and eating disorders too. While she has said that weight is still a struggle for her, she has learned to love her body over the years. And her reply to body shamers on an image she posted on Instagram shows just how much she is at peace with herself now. On being called fat, Lady Gaga put out a tweet saying, "I'd rather be fat than be shallow."Health tip: Drinking a glass or two of water before you have your meals will leave you considerably fuller, naturally preventing you from going on that uncontrollable binge